What is modest? Pronunciation and usage in English

modest means . Learn how to pronounce and use modest through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of modest

modestadjective

/ˈmɒdɪst/
Definition & pronunciation of modest

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "modest" in English. Here's a breakdown and some tips:

1. The Core Sounds:

  • mo-: This part sounds like "mo" as in "more" or "mother."
  • -dest: This is where it gets a little trickier. It's pronounced with a subtle "d" sound, but it's not a hard, sharp "d." It's more like a very quick, almost silent "th" sound.

2. Putting it Together:

The whole word sounds roughly like: "mo-dest" (with that quick, almost silent "th" at the end of "dest").

3. More Detailed Breakdown & Tips:

  • "mo": Say it clearly and distinctly.
  • "dest": This is the key. Think of it as "des-th". The "th" sound is very brief – almost like you're blurring it into the "est." It's not like the "th" in "think" or "this". It’s a very quick, soft, 'th' sound.
  • Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable: “mo-dest”.

4. Listen to Examples:

The best way to learn is to hear it! Here are some resources:

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Hard "d" sound: Don't say "mod-d-est." That's incorrect.
  • Dragging out the "th": The "th" sound needs to be very brief and almost unnoticeable. It's blending into the "est".

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you another example word with a similar sound?

Usage and examples with the word modest in English

Let's break down how to use the word "modest" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different shades of meaning. Here's a breakdown of its uses, with examples:

1. Humble and Unassuming (Most Common Usage)

  • Meaning: This is the most frequent way "modest" is used. It describes someone who doesn't brag about their accomplishments, possessions, or abilities. They're humble and don't draw attention to themselves.
  • Examples:
    • "She was a modest hero, downplaying her bravery during the rescue." (She didn't boast about being brave.)
    • "He's a modest man, he wouldn't expect a reward for his hard work." (He's humble and doesn't seek recognition.)
    • "Despite her success, she remained remarkably modest." (She didn't let her achievements go to her head.)

2. Not Lavish or Extravagant (Referring to Things)

  • Meaning: Used to describe something that isn't luxurious or extravagant – often in terms of appearance, style, or cost.
  • Examples:
    • "They bought a modest house in the countryside." (It wasn't a huge mansion, but a comfortable home.)
    • "She wore a modest dress, avoiding anything too revealing." (It wasn't flashy or attention-grabbing.)
    • "The restaurant offered modest prices." (The prices weren't high or expensive.)

3. Limited or Small (Quantity)

  • Meaning: Describing an amount that's small or not excessive.
  • Examples:
    • "He made a modest donation to the charity." (It wasn’t a huge sum, but a helpful contribution.)
    • "They requested a modest increase in their budget." (They weren’t asking for a large amount.)

4. (Less Common) Reserved or Restrained

  • Meaning: This is a more subtle usage. It can describe someone who is quiet and doesn’t show strong emotions.
  • Example: “She had a modest demeanor, rarely speaking unless spoken to.” (She was reserved and didn’t outwardly express herself.)

Key Considerations & Synonyms:

  • Contrast with “vaunting” or “boastful”: "Modest" is often used against words like "vaunting" (full of self-importance) or "boastful" (proud and bragging).
  • Synonyms: Humble, unassuming, reserved, restrained, simple, unpretentious, low-key.

Here’s a quick table to summarize:

Use Case Meaning Example
Personality Humble, not boastful “He was a modest athlete.”
Appearance/Possessions Not lavish, simple “They lived in a modest apartment.”
Quantity Small, limited “He made a modest profit.”
Demeanor Reserved, quiet “She had a modest response.”

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to use "modest" in a sentence about? (e.g., a person, a house, an amount of money, etc.)

Synonyms for the word modest

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